Leaves-a-turning!

What you feed, where you get it from, basically we will build up a comrehensive list of suitable plants to feed Leaf Cutters. Also in temperate countries, what do you feed them in the Winter?
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Acromyrmexbob
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Leaves-a-turning!

Post by Acromyrmexbob » Wed Oct 03, 2018 9:28 am

Heres an interesting fact! Acromyrmex ( and possibly atta also, not tested this) will take leaves that are turning. I have found that leaves which are acceptable when they are green are equally acceptable when they are red or yellow. Infact all stages up until they are starting to rot. More than this, if you offer a choice between fresh green leaves or leaves that have started to turn, Acromyrmex will either not show any preference or will cut the discoloured leaves first. Not sure why this is but it does extend the leaf season somewhat. Always depressed at this time of year. Its a long winter ahead with poor choice and cold foraging on dark nights and mornings. Sometimes the Brussel Sprout / Cabbage route is the only option!

Jackie62
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Re: Leaves-a-turning!

Post by Jackie62 » Mon Dec 03, 2018 4:09 pm

Yes, I can confirm that Atta will take yellowing leaves, of privet anyhow... :)

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Acromyrmexbob
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Re: Leaves-a-turning!

Post by Acromyrmexbob » Sun Aug 25, 2019 10:43 pm

Also can report that leaf cutters will take diseased leaves, even those that are covered with black spot, rust, and even greenfly. Cant say what the fate of the greenfly is but their presence does not deter the ants!

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